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Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

About Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

PLRs are intended to be used as an engagement tool for leaders to discuss the hazards and trends impacting Soldier safety and readiness. A PLR contains only basic information, as the investigation is ongoing, but provides sufficient background to allow leaders an opportunity to communicate risk at the Soldier level.

 

PLR 21-051- PMV-4 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

A Private First Class assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky died in a PMV-4 mishap 10 April 2021 on the installation, at 0815 local. The Soldier lost control of his vehicle, exited the road, rolled, struck a tree, and came to rest with the roof of his vehicle against the tree. As a result of the roof striking against the tree, it crushed the Soldier. It is unknown at this point if he was wearing his seat belt or if alcohol was involved, but the survivable space inside the vehicle had been compromised.

Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 33 Soldiers a year to off-duty PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap is the 21st PMV-4 fatality of FY21.


One of the most terrifying car accidents is a rollover. In fact, almost 10,000 people die from rollovers every year. Some vehicles, especially SUVs, have improved to help prevent the number of rollovers. Driver error still accounts for most of these. Preventing a rollover requires a driver to remain alert and drive cautiously.

Driver Safety on How to Prevent a Rollover

Tires
Keep a check on tire pressure. If your tire becomes over or under-inflated, you may be setting yourself up for a rollover. Visit your local vehicle service dealership to get this tested and/or invest in a tire gauge and check tire pressure at least once per week. Gauges only cost a few dollars and can help save your life.

Speeding Never Helped Anyone
Driving fast may seem like a good idea at a time, but the faster you drive, the less control you have over your vehicle. Something as simple as a curve or changing lanes could cause you to roll your vehicle. There is a reason a speed limit is set. This is the safe driving speed and should be obeyed.

Watch What You Haul
When hauling anything, pay careful attention to weight and how the load is positioned. The heavier your load, the slower you can respond to unexpected situations. The faster you maneuver, the more you load can shift which results in a rollover. Also, a badly positioned load could shift, no matter how careful you are. Your load should be carefully positioned to distribute weight and prevent movement as you drive.

Be Aware of Road Conditions
Pay attention to weather. Rain, snow, ice, and wind can all create road conditions perfect for a rollover. Know how the weather will be where you are driving and take the appropriate precautions. Precautions may include driving slower, taking a different route, or staying off the roads altogether. Do whatever you need to do to stay safe.

Country Roads
Take extra care when driving on country roads. There are hazards such as animals and sharp curves. Also, the speed limit is usually higher than on city roads. Taking a curve too fast or swerving to avoid an animal could very well result in a rollover. Keep your eyes open for obstacles and slow down for curves.

Never Jerk the Wheel
Swerving to avoid a car, animal, or another obstacle may make you want to jerk the steering wheel. Jerking the wheel too suddenly may cause your vehicle to roll. Also, if you run off the side of the road, gently maneuver back onto the road without panicking and jerking the steering wheel. Sudden steering changes are the cause of many rollovers and could be prevented by staying calm and in control of the vehicle. Steer firmly and as slowly as possible to avoid rollovers.

 

 

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